Raven sat on a low stool as she watched a steady stream of villagers move to and from the forest. The villagers were gathering lumber for a new building, and all of them were working together to raise it. Raven smiled indulgently at a small gathering of children who ran through the streams of adults pulling logs. Taking a small sip of the brew she had procured from the brewers, she felt a familiar pang of desire for the motherhood she would never have.

“You are new.” A deep voice stated from behind her. Raven turned to see the stranger from before staring intently at her.

“As are you.” Raven shot back.

“On the contrary, I've been here for years. You have not.”

“But you're new to me. How do I know you speak the truth?”

The man was silent as his eyes narrowed. Raven took a moment to examine the man's face, tracing the jaw and cheekbones with her eyes. The man spoke.

“Do not break my village.”

“Are you their leader?”

“I have never desired such a role.”

“But you would be if you desired it, would you not?”

“I would have your name, stranger.”

Raven briefly considered denying him that answer but decided to throw him a bone. “My name is Raven.”

“Like the animal?” Raven almost smiled at the man, his question reminding her very strongly of her avian form.

“Yes. And your name stranger?”

“Wolf.”

“Like the animal?” A brief flicker of amusement flashed in his eyes.

“Yes.”